Often, when we are in close proximity to someone with a viral infection, the risk of getting the infection increases. Hence, it is important to find out ways to boost our immunity. Alternatives such as probiotics, herbs and medicinal mushrooms can help improve our immune system.
Alternatively, salt therapy may be considered as a means of relieving symptoms associated with sinus infections, allergies, bronchitis, asthma and sore throats. Despite the benefits, many people are unaware of how salt therapy works.
What is Salt Therapy?
During the mid-1800s, the idea of cave therapy, also known as speleotherapy, was introduced by Polish salt miners who found fewer instances of pulmonary conditions. This eventually led to the emergence of halotherapy, the practice of breathing in salt air to create the effect of being inside a salt cave and reducing the symptoms of minor ailments.
The health benefits of salt are numerous. It helps protect mucous membranes from air pollutants, bacteria and viral infections. This is why it is often recommended to use salt for gargling, rinsing and breathing to strengthen membranes, remove pathogens and reduce inflammation within the body. Because of its antibacterial properties and dehydrating effects, salt can kill a variety of bacteria through osmosis. By causing cells to lose water, the salt inhibits the growth of bacteria and eventually destroys the cells.
Using a pure Himalayan salt crystal inhaler can help fight bacteria, as the high levels of salt can effectively prevent the risk of viral infections. Additionally, gargling with salt water may help reduce symptoms.
Benefits of Using a Himalayan Pink Salt Inhaler
Here are all the main Himalayan salt inhaler benefits you need to know:
- Eliminates Congestion
The high concentration of salt in the inhaler helps remove mucus from your body. Mucus is a source of harmful bacteria that gets destroyed due to dehydration within the bacterial cells.
- Improves Sleep
Inhaling salt can boost your mood and improve your breathing during the night. It helps induce sleep that can effectively improve your immunity against viruses and infections.
- Alleviates Respiratory Conditions
Using a salt inhaler helps flush out bacteria from the respiratory tract. With its anti-inflammatory properties, it plays a key role in clearing out bronchial tubes.
- Mental Health Benefits
With its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, salt increases serotonin levels in your body by releasing negative ions. As a result, it helps to relieve stress, anxiety and depression to improve your mental health.
Working with a Himalayan Salt Inhaler
The Himalayan Pink Salt (also know as Rock Salt and Sendha Namak) Inhaler is a ceramic device that contains a salt chamber and serves as a portable alternative to traditional salt caves.
Inhaling the salt provides a soothing effect similar to that of halotherapy and speleotherapy by creating an optimal environment for the bronchial tract, which helps to reduce congestion and clear mucus build-up, resulting in improved breathing.
The Himalayan salt crystals used in the inhaler are 100% pure and contain over 84 different minerals that can nourish the body. This makes it an effective way to control symptoms and prevent the entry of pathogens into the body.
However, when the salt concentration begins to cleanse the body, you may experience excessive coughing, followed by expectoration and sneezing. Additionally, you may also notice a salty taste in your mouth, which will subside over time. It is important to note that if you have any health conditions, you should consult your doctor before using salt therapy.
How to Use Salt Therapy
To use a salt inhaler, simply put the tip in your mouth and inhale the salt through your mouth while exhaling through your nose.
This process will help remove impurities from your nasal cavities and sinuses, as well as clean your lungs. Repeat this process daily for 15 to 20 minutes as needed. Even inhaling salt for less than 10 minutes can provide noticeable health benefits. If you experience a severe reaction, seek medical attention.
How to Refill a Himalayan Salt Inhaler?
If you notice any moisture in the salt provided with the Himalayan salt inhaler, you can replace it with natural Himalayan salt in granulated form.
Before refilling the inhaler, shake off any existing salt from the bottom plug of the inhaler. It is important to use only natural Himalayan salt and not other types of salt, such as sea salt, table salt, or Epsom salt. The saline provided with the inhaler should last for 12 months with everyday use.
Tips
- Do not share your salt air inhaler with others as it is valid for individual use only.
- Use a damp cloth to wipe the tip of the salt inhaler that entered your mouth.
- If the salt condition is not up to par, you can replace it with finely ground Himalayan salt.
- Store the salt inhaler in a cool, dry place, away from heat.
- If you notice your lips getting dry, use a lip balm for moisturizing.
Himalayan salt inhalers can be a great homemade remedy for fighting viral infections. They can be used in conjunction with any prescribed medications for minor conditions, and with regular use, you may notice a significant improvement in your health.
However, if you have a history of hypertension, it’s important to consult with your doctor before using a salt inhaler to ensure it’s safe for you.